Vinyl Replacement Windows

House Doctor | Gary Dymski

December 14, 2000

Q. I have an old house that has been sided in vinyl. I want to replace the double-hung wood windows. What are the best replacement vinyl windows? I want to do this with the least amount of repair work. -Marian K., Massapequa

A. Trying to determine the "best" vinyl window is like identifying the "best" car. Your first question really should be: How much do you want to spend? For example, you can get an excellent all-vinyl replacement window for significantly less money than a wood-clad replacement window. A standard all-vinyl window might run between $200 and $300 installed, compared with $300 to $400 for a wood or wood-clad window. (Clad means that the exterior portion of a wood window frame is covered in a maintenance-free aluminum or vinyl.)

In your case, I would have four concerns: budget, energy efficiency, quality and installation.

Only you can determine your budget. As for energy efficiency, contact the National Fenestration Rating Council (www.nfrc.org or write the council at 300 Spring St., Suite 500, Silver Spring, Md. 20910) for information about window ratings. This nonprofit organization monitors the window and door industry and has developed a rating system to measure energy efficiency. According to the information from the Energy Star program, Americans spend 40 percent of their energy budget on home heating and cooling costs. Newer windows can reduce that cost by nearly 15 percent. My advice is to buy a window that is approved by the Energy Star program.

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You might also look for products that have the approval of the Window and Door Manufacturers Association (WDMA) and the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA).

A major difference between all-vinyl windows and wood-clad windows is the strength of the frame. Wood-clad windows tend to be stronger and more durable, simply because they are built from wood. All-vinyl windows are hollow vinyl frames. Early vinyl windows had a tendency to lose their structural strength, to bow and bend. However, there have been great improvements in the vinyl industry in the past several years. I'm a fan of vinyl windows, especially with the wider selection of color choices. Also, because vinyl windows can be quickly custom-made to fit into existing openings, the installation process is often less involved.

With vinyl or wood, make sure you pick a window that is backed by a warranty. Top manufacturers offer warranties that exceed 20 years.

No matter how much you spend on windows, installation will play a major role in performance. Contractors and manufacturers will tell you that, over the long run, a properly installed, less- expensive window will outperform a poorly installed, expensive window. Pick a contractor who will stand by the installation process.

I would suggest you arm yourself with as much information as possible, then contact some local window companies. Some manufacturers' Web sites:

Alside Inc.: www.alside.com

Andersen Windows Inc.: www.ander

senwindows.com

CertainTeed Corp.: www.certain

teed.com

Marvin Windows & Doors:

www.marvin.com

Pella Corp.: www.pella.com

Simonton Windows: www.simon

ton.com

Jeld-Wen Inc.: www.jeld-wen.com